Photo: George Nakamura
The Day That Changed How I Do Bridal Makeup Forever
Bridal makeup in Sedona will always hold a special place in my heart – because that’s where my very first on-location wedding began. Back in 2011, long before I had a decade of bridal beauty experience under my belt, I packed my kit, drove from Phoenix to Sedona, and met my bride, Keiko, for the very first time on her wedding morning.
She had traveled all the way from Japan for a spiritual Sedona ceremony that blended Native American traditions with her own. I had no trial, no professional lighting, and certainly no makeup chair – just a passion for making women feel confident and beautiful on their most important day. That morning shaped the way I serve my brides today, and it’s why I am so passionate about bringing the complete on-location bridal makeup experience to weddings across Arizona.
How Makeup By Diana Began
2011 was the year the Makeup By Diana website was born. I didn’t know much about websites back then, but I knew I needed one if I wanted to grow as a makeup artist in Arizona. My goal was simple: help as many women as I could, make them feel confident, and build real relationships with them.
Even when I was working full-time at MAC Cosmetics, I was dreaming of a business where my brides were never just another booking – they were the reason I showed up with my whole heart. Whether it is a wedding or another special event, I want to create a comfortable, uplifting environment where it is all about you, while bringing a touch of European beauty expertise right to your door.
Meeting My Bride, Keiko
One of my very first brides was Keiko. The connection came through a friend of mine (also named Keiko!) who was producing events at the time. She knew I was starting my makeup business and reached out when she was planning this Sedona wedding.
To be honest, I was still at the very beginning of my career. My experience was mostly working behind the counter at MAC, helping clients choose products and doing makeup for special occasions – not traveling to weddings. But I was determined to give it my all.
What I Could Have Done Better
Looking back now, with years of bridal makeup experience, there are definitely things I would do differently:
No Trial or Consultation: I never met my bride before the wedding day and didn’t have a trial run. I knew certain colors looked beautiful on Asian eyes, but I didn’t yet understand the variety within Asian features and preferences.
No Timeline: I didn’t create a detailed schedule. I drove from Phoenix to Sedona, arrived when I thought I should, and hoped the timing would work.
Arriving Earlier: Without a prior meeting, arriving earlier would have given us more time to talk and make her feel at ease.
No Makeup Chair: I learned the hard way how important it is to work at the right height for comfort and precision. My very next purchase was a professional makeup chair.
Poor Lighting: The cabin where she got ready was dark, and I didn’t think to bring a makeup light. Lesson learned!
Personal Email: At the time, I was still using my personal email for all client communication. Not very professional – but I didn’t know any better then.
What I am Proud Of
For all the beginner mistakes, there were also things I am proud I did right:
I arrived on time and ready to work.
I treated my bride with kindness and respect.
I had some knowledge of Japanese makeup preferences.
I followed sanitary practices.
I asked the photographer, George Nakamura, for permission to use the images and credited him properly.
Most importantly, the bride loved her makeup and that is what really matters.
Photo: George Nakamura
Why I will Never Forget This Sedona Wedding
We all start somewhere, and this wedding was the beginning of my on-location bridal makeup journey. Keiko’s ceremony was unlike any I’d seen before – a heartfelt blend of Japanese and Native American traditions, set against the breathtaking Sedona red rocks.
Finding those photos again reminded me of how far I have come and how much I have learned. It also reminded me why I love what I do: creating a beauty experience that’s about so much more than just makeup.
Ready for Your Own Wedding Morning Experience?
Every bride’s morning should feel calm, personal and unforgettable – not rushed or impersonal. That is why I bring the full bridal beauty experience to you, complete with the comfort, attention and artistry I have perfected since that very first Sedona wedding.
Whether your style is soft and romantic, bold and glamorous, or rooted in cultural traditions, I will make sure you feel confident and beautiful. Let’s talk about your wedding day vision and make it happen.